Abstract
The Pharyngeal- Cervical-Brachial (PCB) variant of Guillain- Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare presentation, characterized by marked weakness of the oro- pharynx, neck and proximal upper limbs sparing power and reflexes of the lower limbs. It presents as rapid progressive pharyngeal weakness and often needs intubation and ventilation due to excessive secretions. Diagnosis is supported by high CSF protein and absent F waves in upper limbs in electro-physiological studies. Diagnosis can be confirmed by doing ant DT1a antibodies. We present the case report of a 6-year-old patient who presented with progressive difficulty in swallowing due to oro-pharyngeal muscle weakness.
Highlights
Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a post infectious polyneuropathy mainly involving motor nerves with sensory and autonomic nerve involvement occurring less frequently
A 6-year-old boy was transferred from a peripheral hospital for ICU care due to progressive difficulty in swallowing caused by oro-pharyngeal muscle weakness
There are a few cases reported in adults from Sri Lanka but we could not find any records on paediatric cases[4]
Summary
Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a post infectious polyneuropathy mainly involving motor nerves with sensory and autonomic nerve involvement occurring less frequently. It is predominantly caused a demyelinating polyneuropathy, though axonal degeneration is reported[1]. Bulbar involvement occurs in about half of the cases resulting in facial weakness, dysphagia and respiratory paralysis. There are a few variants of GBS which do not fallow the above pattern. These are namely the Miller Fisher (MF) and the Pharyngeal-Cervical-Brachial (PCB). The pharyngeal-cervicalbrachial variant is rare and is characterized by acute progression of oro-pharyngeal, neck and shoulder weakness.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
